Having been in the industry for over 20 years, I have met some very interesting people. Jim Rys falls into that category for sure. In two years he will be a 40 year veteran of this great industry. His background includes working on the client side in a number of different industries including insurance, retail/catalog, and financial services.
I hope you enjoy getting to know Jim Rys a little bit.
MD
How did you first get involved in the research industry?
JR
I fell into it. Soon after my return from Vietnam and discharge from the Army, I went job hunting. A recruiter thought my talents and experiences suited me for a career in market research. Within a couple of weeks, I landed a couple of job offers. I took the one from Sears because it seemed most promising. It was in catalog circulation planning and research. I ran with it and never looked back and second guessed my decision.
MD
What do you believe is the number one issue in the research industry today?
JR
I think that it’s finding technically skilled researchers and grooming them to be consultative. Today, market researchers need the technical and consultative skills and business knowledge that will earn them the trust of both the decision-makers and implementers (shakers and movers) within their companies.
MD
What does a successful research project mean to you?
JR
A successful research project is one that produces actions that benefit our business.
MD
How much interaction does your research group have with the C-level at Assurant Health?
JR
We’ve earned a seat at the table by consistently providing high quality research that addresses issues of paramount importance our business. Our clients trust us and the insights they and we derived from our work. They feel that it’s in the best interest of both of us to be collaborative.
MD
What are the most effective ways to communicate with C-level executives?
JR
Communication with C-level executives is most effective when it matches their styles and preferences, is interactive, and suggests and results in decisions that favorably influence the business.
MD
When you are hiring research professionals what are some of the things you look for in potential candidates?
JR
I look first and foremost for professionals who fit culturally. Secondarily, I test their research and consultative skills and their aptitude for learning. Finally, and especially at more senior levels, I want them to have health insurance industry knowledge based on experience.
MD
What advice would you give someone entering the research industry?
JR
Work both sides of the business but be sure that your work on either side includes involvement and face-to-face contact with clients. Avoid situations that don’t improve your skills or knowledge.
MD
What are your thoughts about global outsourcing?
JR
It’s usually beneficial economically, but third parties need to be forced to meet or surpass our performance standards and accept our monitoring and measuring to be certain they do.
MD
What would your friends in the industry be surprised to know about you?
JR
My friends would be surprised to know that I have “neat feet,” literally and figuratively. I know how to dance and have made great use of that talent in my life.
About Jim
Jim Rys is Director, Market Research for Assurant Health. He started his market research career in February, 1969. Since that time he has sold and serviced more than 150 market research engagements across many industries including utility, telephone, newspaper, shipping, clothing, toy, and agriculture.
Jim is involved with the American Marketing Association, the Advertising Research Foundation, the Marketing Science Institute, and the A.C. Nielsen Center for Marketing Research at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Jim enjoys golf, tennis, soccer, cycling and skiing; is an outdoor enthusiast; and an avid reader.
Posted in Interviews | Comments Off on Interview with Jim Rys